In a decisive move to uphold order and ensure the sanctity of the 2025 Hajj exercise, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced that, beginning April 29, 2025—corresponding to the 1st of Dhul Qadah, 1446 AH—no hotel or hospitality facility in Makkah will be allowed to accommodate individuals lacking a valid Hajj permit or an official entry document for work or residency purposes.
This directive, issued through the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, is part of broader security measures being implemented ahead of the annual pilgrimage. The Ministry stressed the importance of strict adherence by all hotel operators and service providers within Makkah, particularly during this sensitive religious season. The regulation is expected to remain in effect throughout the entire duration of the Hajj.
In a related update, the Ministry of Interior declared that starting from April 29, any individual attempting to enter Makkah with a visa type other than the designated Hajj visa will be turned back. This includes visitors holding tourist, business, transit, or even Umrah visas if not accompanied by Hajj accreditation. The government explained that the measure forms part of a coordinated effort to manage the overwhelming number of pilgrims expected for the 1446 AH pilgrimage season and to prevent overcrowding, which could compromise safety.
Authorities have reiterated that any hospitality facility that violates the order by accommodating individuals without proper documentation will face the full weight of the law. Legal consequences will be applied in accordance with the official guidelines governing Hajj operations this year.
In an official statement, the Ministry urged stakeholders in the hospitality industry to cooperate fully with government agencies to ensure smooth logistics, maintain public order, and prioritize the welfare of millions of Muslims converging on the holy city from different parts of the world.
The Kingdom’s commitment to a secure and spiritually rewarding Hajj for all pilgrims remains steadfast, with this latest measure reflecting the seriousness with which the authorities are preparing for one of Islam’s most sacred obligations.
